Annunciation and Visitation - Reims Cathedral
These statues (1230-1255) are part of the entral portal of the north transept, known as the "Portail de la Vierge" of the western façade of Reims Cathedral. The two figures on the left depict the annunciation with Gabriel looking at the Virgin Mary, the figures on the right represent the visitation of Mary to Saint Elizabeth.1
They are renowned for their naturalistic poses, detailed drapery, and expressive faces, reflecting the high point of medieval Gothic sculpture. The statues were originally painted in vibrant colors, though much of the paint has weathered away over time.
Archbishop Aubry de Humbert initiated the construction of the west facade in 1211 after a fire destroyed the previous Carolingian cathedral, reflecting the cathedral's role as a coronation site for French kings, starting with Louis VIII in 1223. The Annunciation and Visitation figures were crafted during this rebuilding phase, exhibiting the evolving Gothic style.
The figure of Gabriel is thought to be the work of Joseph Masters.23 The sculptures’ naturalistic poses and expressive drapery mark a shift from earlier, more static Romanesque forms. Though both groups were installed together around 1245-1255, the Visitation group was created c1230 and predates the Annunciation group by 15-20 years.
- 1. Art Of The Middle Ages World Of Art World Of Art London Thames & Hudson 2002. p167.
- 2. Notre-Dame Cathedral https://www.discoverfrance.net/France/Cathedrals/Reims/Notre-Dame_Reims....
- 3. The Art of the Renaissance in Eastern Europe Jan Białostockihttps://www.jstor.org/stable/3049758
